“Drink creatively”, reads the motto for Paint Nite, and with it, a full disclaimer that no experience is required. Paint Nite is just one of the rising proliferation of activities in Brampton that pairs alcohol with other activities. No complaints here!
Whether you’re super confident in your art skills or you’re a complete novice (like me), Paint Nite is tons of fun for everyone.
When I first arrived I wasn’t sure what to expect. My art skills are comparable to that of a nine-year-old. But everyone was super nice and were all there to have fun!
Most Paint Nites take place at different restaurants and bars: basically, anywhere they can keep the drinks coming. Hosts generally push tables together in one area of restaurant to create a space for art. Each participant is equipped with an apron, an easel, different paint colours (depending on what picture you’re creating), and paint brushes.
Once you’re all settled, they will introduce your group’s server who will then walk around to collect drink orders. It’s important you have your drink before you start because they make you say a little haiku while holding your drink in the air. I didn’t have my drink yet, but my cup of water to clean off my brushes worked just fine for this!
There’s not a lot of room on the table for your canvas, painting supplies and drinks. So I would suggest showing up at the restaurant an hour before, this way you can eat (pre-drink) and save yourself a spot in the painting area. If you’re in a rush you can probably squeeze an app or two onto your table.
Once the painting commences, the teacher gives very detailed step-by-step instructions. They paint right along with everyone so you can see what it’s supposed to look like. Then you can look at yours and know that it’s true: you’re now a legitimate artist.
Someone will walk around taking pictures of you in the act of painting (you can opt out of this if you prefer). These beautiful photos of you drinking and painting a masterpiece will end up on Facebook. Make sure you tag yourself in the photos to promote Painte Nite Peel and to show off your mad skills.
There are usually different points throughout the night where you let your painting dry. This is the perfect opportunity to slip off into the washroom, grab another drink or check out other people’s works of art.
Don’t be too hard on yourself! This is all about fun and your painting will end up looking spectacular no matter what. The teacher is very helpful and everyone (including the restaurant staff) is supportive of your good time.
By the end of the night, everyone is very tipsy and will compliment your art no matter what it looks like. Soak up all that love. You deserve it! You will leave feeling accomplished and with a lovely painting to hang on your bathroom wall.
